The species is unique morphologically and karyotypically. Research has confirmed that it is indeed distinct from Microtus dogramacii, as the two species have been recorded in sympatry (Jaarola et al. 2004).

Justification:
This species is endemic to Turkey, although further taxonomic investigation may reveal it to be a marginal population of a more widespread species (B. Kryštufek pers. comm. 2007). Published data make at first appear to be highly restricted with few locations, but more, unpublished, localities have been found indicating that the species is more widespread than currently known (likely >20,000 km²) (N. Yigit pers. Comm. 2007). Until further taxonomic and survey work is carried out there are insufficient data available to assess the species beyond Data Deficient.

This species is endemic to Turkey, where it occurs in the steppes of central Anatolia. Its distribution limits are poorly known, but it appears to be restricted to southern parts of central Anatolia (Demirsoy et al. 2006).

This species is found in areas with dry alkaline soil vegetated sparsely with halophytic plants. It can also be found in areas of sugar beet agriculture during the harvest season only (at other times of the year the species is absent from sugar beet fields).

The species is found in an area that is a remnant zone from the Tetis Sea, an area of typical alkaline vegetation (halophytic plants) that hosts a number of endemic animal and plant species. This area is under increasing exploitation for sugar beet cultivation. Irrigation for this agriculture is the main threat. Rodenticides are also used in the area (N. Yigit pers. comm. 2007).

Part of the eastern edge of the range falls within Tuz Lake Special Protected Area (declared in 2000), which is not well managed for nature protection and has deteriorated in condition over the past 5 years. More genetic research is needed to clarify the taxonomic status of this species, and further surveys are needed to determine the range, population, and trends.